Learning to Lead Like JesusSample

Learning to Lead Like Jesus with Teachability

Jesus Was Teachable

Jesus was dependent on, and learned from, His heavenly Father. The Son never stopped learning from His Father. Christ confessed He could do nothing by Himself, but only what He saw His Father doing. So, tethered by trust in His Father, Jesus made sure to seek guidance from above before He made major moves below. Even in the middle of pressing needs, Jesus would disengage, depart to the mountains, and prayerfully seek His Father’s heart. How much more should we also be desperately dependent on our heavenly Father?

What Does It Mean to Have a Teachable Heart?

Teachability is a primary fruit of humility. When we have an open heart to learn, we are in a position to receive wisdom from God and others. Jesus affirms a teachable heart, for He knows it has potential to learn and understand the things of God. A teachable heart is positioned to receive truth, and possesses an attitude consisting of more questions than answers.

A teachable heart recognizes truth when it comes knocking. It invites truth in to be examined, understood, and applied. Truth invigorates the teachable heart. There is a rush of spiritual adrenaline when truth intersects with an open mind and heart. Pride plateaus in its learning, but a teachable heart continues to scale the mountain of truth, understanding, and wisdom.

When the Lord discovers someone who is teachable, He calls him wise. Wisdom comes from God; therefore, a teachable heart learns the ways of God. The Holy Spirit facilitates teachability, as truth applied transforms behaviors and attitudes. Change that comes from the inside out makes us like Christ: humble, bold, wise, holy, gracious, encouraging, and faithful.

Change doesn’t come easily, even if you understand God has your best interests in mind. But the transformation shows. Your character and behavior fall more in line with the life of Christ. Your spouse and children notice something different. You lead patiently and prayerfully instead of with fearful and intimidating tactics. Gain a teachable heart by first elevating your honor and worship of Almighty God.

A Point to Ponder: Pride plateaus in learning, but a teachable heart continues to scale the mountain of truth.

Questions for Reflection... 

• What learning style motivates you and is effective for your growth and education? It might be an online class, attending lectures, interning with an expert, reading or listening to a book, or listening to a podcast.
• What types of wisdom would you like to study? Psalms, Proverbs, classic literature, or something else?
• Who can you ask to join you in a book club to discuss big ideas and challenging thoughts?

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We hope you enjoyed this Bible reading plan, adapted from Learning to Lead Like Jesus by Boyd Bailey. Discover more about the 11 common traits that mark successful leaders, and learn the keys to growth in wisdom and humility at the following affiliate link here.